7 day itinerary for Crete

Itinerary

Crete is a beautiful island with a rich history and culture, and there's so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 7 days in Crete:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

After arriving in Crete, take some time to relax and settle in. You can spend the day exploring your hotel or Airbnb, or head to the beach for some sun and relaxation. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also take a stroll around the local area and get a feel for the island.

Day 2: Chania Old Town and Venetian Harbor

Chania is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Spend the day exploring the old town and Venetian harbor, which are filled with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming cafes. You can also visit the Chania Archaeological Museum to learn more about the island's history.

Day 3: Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is a must-see attraction in Crete. It's a 16-kilometer-long gorge that's home to stunning natural scenery and wildlife. You can hike through the gorge and take in the breathtaking views, or take a guided tour to learn more about the area.

Day 4: Knossos Palace and Heraklion

Knossos Palace is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete. It's home to the ruins of an ancient Minoan palace, which dates back to the Bronze Age. After exploring the palace, head to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, to explore the city and its many attractions.

Day 5: Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. It's known for its crystal-clear waters, pink sand, and stunning scenery. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea, and soaking up the sun.

Day 6: Rethymnon Old Town and Fortezza Castle

Rethymnon is another beautiful city in Crete, known for its charming old town and impressive Fortezza Castle. Spend the day exploring the city, wandering through the narrow streets, and taking in the stunning views from the castle.

Day 7: Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga Island is a small island off the coast of Crete, known for its stunning scenery and rich history. It's home to an ancient Venetian fortress, which was later used as a leper colony. You can take a boat tour to the island and explore the fortress and its surroundings.

That's an ideal itinerary for 7 days in Crete. Of course, there's so much more to see and do on the island, so feel free to adjust the itinerary to suit your interests and preferences.